APPLE RIVER — This year marks the 75th anniversary of Apple River State Bank. The bank is the only locally owned, independent community bank chartered in Jo Daviess County with seven convenient locations and nearly 40 ATMs, the largest network in the area.  

By mid-year, the bank plans to open its eighth location at 207 Wells Street in Darlington. After a remodeling period that utilizes local contractors, the new facility will accommodate both the bank office and professional office space available for rent, with ample parking. The two-story building has three drive-up lanes and a drive-up ATM. The ATM is now back in operation.

In 1946, the community of Apple River had no bank at the time. The two banks that had served the community were closed during the depression and never reopened. The nearest bank was in Warren, Illinois.

A group of prominent businessmen gathered at The Lion’s Den in Apple River to discuss the formation of a bank. On Nov. 21, 1946, the group decided to proceed with plans to organize a bank. In those days, every town had a local bank that served the financial needs of its community. Apple River State Bank was established in January 1948.

Apple River State Bank opened its first branch office in Galena in 1995, operating as First Community Bank of Galena. In 1999, the bank acquired the Warren office, opened the Scales Mound office in 2001, and purchased the Elizabeth and Hanover offices in 2008. The Hazel Green office opened in late 2019. The Darlington office will open in a building constructed in 1987 by Citizens National Bank of Darlington and occupied by five regional banks in the intervening years. 

“Today, Apple River State Bank and First Community Bank of Galena have the same ideals as our founders,” said Joel Holland, Chief Executive Officer of The Apple River State Bank. “Our mission has remained steadfast over the last 75 years with a firm commitment to our customers and communities.